Plasma synthesis of group IV quantum dots for luminescence and photovoltaic applications

The unique ability of nonthermal plasmas to form high-quality nanocrystals (NCs) of covalently bonded semiconductors, including the group IV elements silicon (Si) and germanium (Ge), has been extensively demonstrated over the past few years. Recently, plasma processing was also extended to the surface functionalization of NCs, imparting further functionalities to plasma-produced NCs such as solution-processability or the passivation of electronic surface states. This paper focuses on the synthesis and surface functionalization of Si- and Ge-NCs, and on their application in luminescent and photovoltaic devices.